Black History Month Biopics You Can't Miss

February 19, 2019

Celebrate Black History Month with the true stories of African-American men and women who shaped the course of history in music, culture, politics and sports.

Black History Month highlights and celebrates accomplishments by African-American men and women in every field. Biopics are a perfect way to learn more about these famous names and lesser-known — but equally important — trailblazers. From music legends to sports icons, here are 13 outstanding biopics for Black History Month.

"Hidden Figures": Theincredible untold story of African-American women working at NASA. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson were the heroes behind-the-scenes who helped launch astronaut John Glenn into space, breaking race and gender barriers. Watch on Cox On Demand

"Ali": Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. Will Smith takes on the life story of boxing legend and civil rights activist Muhammad Ali. Watch on Cox On Demand

"Dreamgirls": Before Destiny's Child or En Vogue, there was the Supremes. Based on the Broadway musical — and inspired by the super group — Dreamgirls follows three black female soul singers as they take over the music business. Beyonce and Jennifer Hudson give memorable performances in this music biopic. Watch on Cox On Demand

"Selma": Take a deeper look into the life of Martin Luther King and his incredible strength during the fight for civil rights in 1965. His leadership in Selma would change the course of American history forever. Watch on Cox On Demand

"Ray Charles": The American songbook wouldn't exist without Ray Charles. The soul innovator's triumph over hardship and racism is portrayed by Jamie Foxx in an Oscar-worthy performance. Watch on Cox On Demand

"Roxanne Roxanne": Roxanne Shante broke down doors for women in hip-hop, without even realizing it. From sparking lyrical battles to influencing female rappers that would follow, this biopic looks at the exciting and dizzying rise of a young legend. Watch on Netflix

Documentaries

"The Two Killings of Sam Cooke": Sam Cooke broke down race barriers with his infectious voice and crossover appeal. But the "A Change Is Gonna Come" singer was gunned down mysteriously at the height of his career. This true crime documentary delves into what happened to the man — and his legacy — amid unanswered questions. Watch on Netflix

"What Happened, Miss Simone"?: A true treat for music fans, this documentary features never-before-heard interviews and footage from the soul legend and activist Nina Simone. The Emmy-award winning film highlights one of soul's most important voices. Watch on Netflix

"Who Killed Jam Master Jay?": Run-DMC are hip-hop legends with hits like "My Adidas" and "Walk This way." Fans were shocked when the group's DJ, Jam Master Jay, was tragically gunned down in 2002. What really happened in this unsolved case? Watch on Netflix.

"The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson": The life and legacy of activist Marsha P. Johnson, who played a crucial role in NYC's Stonewall uprising, is explored in this enlightening documentary. Activist Victoria Cruz follows the story of her friend, shining light on the experiences of the LGBT community. Watch on Netflix.

"Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise": The poet and activist Maya Angelou is celebrated with her own words in this documentary that features appearances by Cicely Tyson and Common. Her poetry continues to move generations. Watch on Netflix.

"Quincy": Producer, composer, legend. Quincy Jones has shaped the American music landscape for decades, working with everyone from Ray Charles and Michael Jackson to Frank Sinatra. Helmed by daughter Rashida Jones, this biopic shows an intimate and human side to the talented legend. Watch on Cox On Demand